Tens of thousands of trout are being stocked all over Connecticut and 1,000 Atlantic salmon have already been released! Nets full of jumbo rainbows, browns, and tigers from Quinebaug hatchery were stocked, while Kensington hatchery fired off brute brookies and tank Atlantic salmon. While many anglers associate trout fishing with spring (and for good reason), fall can offer excellent fishing conditions, and is a fantastic time to chase trout and salmon with far less angling pressure while enjoying the great sport of fishing among New England’s incredible fall colors. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice just getting started, there are fishing opportunities for you. So, grab your gear, take a friend (or better yet a youngster), and make it happen!
The lakes, ponds and rivers stocked with trout number in the hundreds across the state, but these four spots were stocked with salmon over the past month.
- Crystal Lake, Ellington
- Naugatuck River – Lower TTA, Naugatuck/Beacon Falls
- Naugatuck River – TMA, Harwinton/Litchfield
- Shetucket River – TTA, Windham/Scotland/Sprague
Like the last two years, that state is tagging all adult Atlantic salmon stocked into the lakes and rivers to evaluate fish movement and angler catch data. Since beginning the study, more than 750 tags have been reported by more than 150 unique anglers, which has resulted in some fascinating discoveries. For example, one salmon (#0008) was caught seven times, the majority either moved downstream (49%) or stayed put near where they were stocked (42%). A small percentage moved upriver. And so far, the winner for furthest distance traveled went to salmon #0885 who was stocked into the Naugatuck River and was caught and reported in the Block Island Sound near Point Judith, Rhode Island, 177 kilometers, or 110 miles away!
This year the tags are yellow. Tags include a unique four-digit ID number and contact information to report your catch. It’s all catch and release for Atlantic salmon through December 15th and special regulations apply in waters they are stocked. Please know before you go. Game wardens are watching, even if you don’t see them. Importantly, if you catch a tagged salmon, PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THE TAG. Simply note the tag number and report to DEEP along with the date, specific location of your catch, and contact information. Good luck, and your participation is appreciated!
